Cat Microchipping

At Rutland Vets in Northamptonshire, we believe microchipping is one of the most effective ways to ensure your cat can be safely returned to you if they go missing. Whether your cat is an indoor explorer or an outdoor adventurer, a microchip gives them a permanent form of identification that can’t be lost or removed.

From June 2024, microchipping is a legal requirement for all cats in England aged 20 weeks and over. Our team is here to make the process quick, safe, and stress-free for both you and your cat.

Microchipping is a simple, routine procedure where a tiny chip, about the size of a grain of rice, is inserted under the skin, usually between your cat’s shoulder blades. This microchip contains a unique identification number that is linked to your contact details in a national database.

If your cat is found and taken to a vet, rescue centre, or local authority, they can scan the chip and contact you quickly, making a happy reunion much more likely.

There’s nothing worse than the feeling of potentially losing your cat. As well as helping cat owners like yourself to reunite, there are lots of other reasons to microchip your cat:

• Permanent identification that can’t fall off like a collar or tag
• Legally required for cats aged 20 weeks and older (from June 2024)
• Increases the chance of being reunited if your cat gets lost or stolen
• Provides peace of mind for cat owners, especially with outdoor cats
• Helps rescue centres identify and return stray cats to their owners

Even if your cat stays indoors, microchipping is still essential—they can escape through windows or doors, and having a chip ensures they’re always identifiable.

Having your cat microchipped is only effective if your contact details remain current. It’s important to notify the microchip database provider if you move house, change phone numbers, or rehome your cat.

Our team at Rutland Vets can check if your cat already has a chip and help you update the details if needed.

Microchipping is a quick and straightforward procedure that takes just a few minutes and doesn’t require anaesthesia. Many owners choose to have their cat microchipped during routine visits or alongside other procedures like neutering.

Your cat will receive:

• A quick scan to check for an existing chip
• A safe and sterile implant of the microchip
• Registration of your contact information on a national database
• Guidance on how to keep your details up to date

If your cat hasn’t yet been microchipped, or you’re not sure, contact Rutland Vets in Northamptonshire today. Our friendly team is happy to check your cat for a chip and arrange a microchipping appointment if needed.

Our team has been microchipping cats for years, so you can be confident your pet is receiving the best care. If you have any further questions about the microchipping process, how to update your details or want to find out if a cat has an existing microchip, please contact your nearest Rutland Vets branch and speak to our friendly team.

Stay compliant with the law and protect your feline friend, book your cat’s microchipping appointment today at Rutland Vets.